Pastel Blues, Nina Simone’s 1965 album, is a collection of profound and deeply felt performances, capturing the artist at the height of her powers. The album features some of her most iconic recordings, including the searing "Sinnerman" and the poignant "Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out."
- Pastel Blues was recorded in a single session on July 1, 1965, at the RCA Studios in New York City. The album was produced by Bob Thiele, a prolific producer known for his work with John Coltrane and Louis Armstrong. The song "Sinnerman" has been featured in numerous films and television shows, including "The Thomas Crown Affair" (1968) and "Lucifer" (2016).
- Pastel Blues was released on October 1, 1965, by RCA Victor, and later reissued by Verve Records. It reached number 12 on the Billboard R&B album chart. The album was reissued in 2015 by Verve Records with remastered audio.
- The album features a core band of Simone on piano and vocals, Rudy Stevenson on guitar, Bob Cunningham on bass, and Chris White on drums. The arrangements are sparse, allowing Simone's vocal and piano work to take center stage. It is considered one of her most essential albums by critics and fans alike.
Nina Simone was an American singer, pianist, and songwriter, known for her work spanning jazz, blues, folk, R&B, gospel, and classical music. Pastel Blues was released during a period of intense social and political commentary in her career, following her acclaimed work on "I Put a Spell on You" and preceding her gospel-influenced album "Wild Is the Wind."
Tracklist
